Mitigating Flash Flood Risks: A Study of Control Measures in Dalican, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao

Abstract This study aimed to examine the history of flash floods in Dalican, Datu Odin Sinsuat, and a framework for flood control measures was proposed to assist local authorities and stakeholders in addressing these issues. A systematic approach to identify area-specific solutions for future flood prevention was intended, and this was considered essential for planning and policy formulation. Community workshops, focus group discussions, interviews, and site visits were conducted to identify various factors contributing to flash floods, including peak rainfall, watershed characteristics, and land management practices. Flash floods in Dalican were found to be triggered by heavy rainfall, with the worst occurrences recorded in 2003 and 2008. The watershed, which spans about 13,000 hectares, was observed to be narrow and long, leading to significant water accumulation. Several creeks, including Dalican, Sibuto, and Benolen Creeks, were identified as contributing to flooding in lowland areas, such as the MSU-Maguindanao Campus and nearby communities. It was found that poor land management practices, such as slash-and-burn farming and timber poaching, exacerbated soil erosion and increased the risk of landslides during heavy rains. Inadequate drainage infrastructure, such as undersized culverts, was also identified as a factor that worsened flooding in Poblacion and other areas. Control measures were proposed, including reforestation efforts, improving upland farming techniques, replacing undersized culverts with larger box-type structures, and desilting canals. In addition, a three-pronged solution involving infrastructure rehabilitation, social interventions, and watershed restoration was recommended. The need for the LGU of Datu Odin Sinsuat to lead efforts in implementing these flood control measures was emphasized by the study.